Athena, daughter of Zeus, wearing an aegis with the head of the Gorgon at its center

A stamp from Greece

A.Word.A.Day

with Anu Garg

aegis

PRONUNCIATION:

(EE-jis)

MEANING:

noun: Protection, support, guidance, or sponsorship of a particular person or organization.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Latin aegis, from Greek aigis (goatskin), from aix (goat). Aigis was
the name of the shield or breastplate of Zeus or Athena in Greek mythology.
It was made of goatskin. Earliest documented use: 1704.

USAGE:

"The French hope that by April an African force will have come under the UN's aegis."
The Battle Moves to the Mountains; The Economist (London, UK); Feb 9, 2013.

Always, Sir, set a high value on spontaneous kindness. He whose inclination prompts him to cultivate your friendship of his own accord, will love you more than one whom you have been at pains to attach to you. -Samuel Johnson, lexicographer (1709-1784)